BCFS002061-Rush-Burns-84-[Landing Page] -

Chronic Pain
Treatment Study

This NIH‑funded study, run by Rush University Medical Center and Wayne State University, is testing three types of talk‑based treatments for chronic spinal pain. People who join the study will be placed into one of four groups. Three of the groups will receive one of the treatments, and one group will not receive treatment. Everyone can keep using their regular healthcare.

People who receive treatment will meet with an expert through a remote video visit to help improve pain and daily functioning. All parts of the study, including surveys and treatment sessions, are done remotely.

The study wants to learn how well these treatments reduce pain, how they affect daily life, what changes happen during treatment, and which people benefit the most.

Fast Facts

Have chronic pain for at least 3 months

Interested in receiving a remote consultation with an expert to improve pain and functioning

Compensation up to $100

Conducted remotely

Additional Information

Why is this study being done?

This study is being done to compare the effectiveness of three different psychological therapies in reducing chronic musculoskeletal pain and improving daily functioning. Researchers want to understand how these therapies work, what changes occur in people receiving them, and which individuals benefit the most. By identifying the most effective approaches, the study aims to improve access to non-medication treatment options for chronic pain.

Is this study for me?

You may qualify for this study if you meet the following criteria:

Inclusion Criteria:

Are 18 years or older
Live in the United States
Have had chronic pain for at least 3 months
Are interested in psychological therapy to help with pain or daily functioning
Are willing to be randomly assigned to one of several psychological therapies or to a no-therapy control condition
Are able to use Zoom for therapy sessions
Are generally healthy (do not have diseases like rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, MS, bowel disease, cancer, epilepsy, liver disease, or alcohol/drug dependence)
Are not recently or currently applying for disability or workman’s compensation for the pain

What will happen if I participate in the study?

Complete a short online screener (about 5 minutes). If eligible, schedule a 30-minute Zoom call with a research assistant to confirm eligibility and learn more.
If you choose to join, complete an initial 1-hour online survey.
Random Assignment:
- You will be randomly assigned to one of four study arms:
- Three study arms will receive one of three psychological therapies (Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Pain Reprocessing Therapy, or Emotional Awareness and Expression Therapy).
- One study arm will continue with their usual healthcare without additional therapy.
Therapy Session (If Assigned to Therapy):
- Meet with a psychologist via Zoom for a single 90-minute session of therapy.
  Online Surveys:
- Complete surveys before therapy session, 1-week after the therapy session, and 6-weeks after the therapy session (or 1-week and 6-weeks after the date you were placed into a study arm if in the condition not receiving therapy).

Study Completion:

After the final survey at 6 weeks, your participation in the study will be complete.

Will I be paid for being in this research study?

Yes, participants can earn up to $100 for completing all study activities.

Will it cost me anything to participate in this study?

There is no cost for you to participate in our research study.